Sophia Laforteza Is Taking a Hiatus from KATSEYE. Here’s Why

Members of the popular girl group KATSEYE are lending support to their bandmate Sophia Laforteza as she prepares to take a break from the group to focus on her health.

The band issued a statement on Weverse, announcing that Laforteza will be “temporarily unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities” and noting that it’s “imperative that her mental health and wellness are prioritized.”

“Sophia has been receiving the utmost support, and following thorough consultations with medical professionals, it has been advised that she take dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care to ensure a full recovery,” the statement read. “While Sophia herself is eager to perform alongside her members, the health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists will always remain our highest priority.”

The statement continued, explaining that the band will “closely monitor (Sophia’s) progress and support her journey.”

“We plan to reassess her condition in September and will share a further update with fans at that time,” the statement read.

Laforteza addressed her fans directly in her own Instagram storypost.

“It truly breaks my heart to have to miss out on a lot. You know how much I love being on stage, performing, and sharing these moments with you,” she wrote. “Making this decision wasn’t easy, but I’m learning that health has to come first. I’m realizing that if I don’t take care of my mind and body now, I won’t be able to keep doing what I love the most for so long.”

The 23-year-old thanked her fans for being “patient” and “understanding.”

“It means more to me than I could ever say. I promise I’m going to work as hard as I can to get through this, heal properly, and come back stronger,” she wrote.

The singer ended her post by urging her fans to “be kind” and give KATSEYE “all your love and support.”

Laforteza did not attend the premiere of the “KATSEYE: Wild Hearts” documentary on Aug. 5. While addressing her bandmate’s absence, Lara Raj told Variety, “She’s not feeling well, but she says hi.”

Another member of KATSEYE, Manon Bannerman, revealed in February that she would be taking a temporary hiatus to “focus on her health and wellbeing,” per Variety.

“KATSEYE remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us. The group will continue scheduled activities during this time, and we look forward to being together again when the time is right,” the band’s statement read.

The group is scheduled to perform live on the TODAY Plaza on Aug. 14 as part of the Citi Concert Series.